STL Womens Trail Summit

TESTIMONIALS

The STL Women’s Trail Summit was a highlight of my year. I could go on about the workshops, activities, and food (amazing!), but the best part was the sense of community. I’ve been an outdoor adventurer since I was a kid, and sometimes it’s lonely being a woman out there. I found my village at the summit. —Amber Tompsett-Higley I knew the STL Women’s Trail Summit would be a fun-filled weekend, full of educational seminars. But I did not expect the connection and comradery that resulted. It was exhilarating to spend the weekend with a group of like-minded women, who share similar obstacles and worries of daily life yet find the same peace and joy from the trail. The summit was very inclusive; participants varied from trail newbies to seasoned ultrarunners and everyone in between. My favorite parts were learning basic orienteering and sharing stories around the campfire. I’ll definitely be back next year! —Rachel Twedt It’s a rarity that I run into other women on the trails, so I was ecstatic to attend the STL Women’s Trail Summit. This was a great event for women to come together and connect with nature, whether it be through running, hiking or camping. It allowed for the opportunity to learn from educational seminars in a low-pressure environment. While sitting around the campfire, I heard a number of encouraging stories from women who have and continue to push past their limits, which, in turn, has given me the motivation to continue to push past my limits. Now, when I see the ladies who attended the summit, we have an unspoken bond because of our shared experiences. —Nicolette Watson 2018 EVENT REPORT PUBLISHED IN ULTRARUNNING MAGAZINE

ABOUT

The number of women participating in outdoor sports is substantially lower than that of their male counterparts. We believe this gender gap does not stem from a lack of resources or equipment but rather from fewer opportunities for women to learn and progress in a relaxed and positive environment. STL Women's Trail Summit started from a desire to help close this gender gap and encourage more women to get outside. The weekend event is hosted by women, for women, and is open to all skills levels and passions. The schedule includes multiple educational sessions, high-quality instruction, experiential activities, and social opportunities to help foster new connections. The goal: to empower women to become ambassadors of the outdoors, so we can inspire even more females to take to the trails.

LOCATION

Our 2026 event will be held at the beautiful Cuivre River State Park located in Troy, Missouri! Participants will enjoy an entire weekend of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, night trail run/hike, various outdoor clinics and potluck style dinner and breakfast beginning on Friday, October 2 @5PM, and ending on Sunday, October 4 @12PM and, most importantly, the fellowship of like-minded women. Grab your gear, tell your friends and join us for a weekend of camping and dirt!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This is a FREE community event for WOMEN ONLY! *Event is capped at 20 participants* WHAT TO BRING - Camping gear (if you plan on pitching a tent) - Cot, Mattress Pad, Sheets, Sleeping Bag & Pillow - Activity-Specific Gear - Review the 2026 Itinerary for specific gear that you may need in order to be able to participate in the various activities. Food items, drinks etc. for the weekend will be emailed to all participants after online registration closes on September 27, 2026. *ALL COSTS associated with hosting this event such as campsite reservations and fees for clinics etc. will be equally split between all participants attending this event. Everyone is responsible for their own food and drinks!

2026 ITINERARY

2026 STL WOMEN'S TRAIL SUMMIT SCHEDULE